A NEWPORT couple say they are living in fear of a gang of yobs who are targeting them because of the way they dress.

Alan Wreford, 30, and Julie Prothero, 20, say a gang of youths are regularly attacking their home on the Old Barn estate, St Julians. The couple claim they endure regular verbal abuse and have had a number of windows smashed with bricks because they wear black and listen to heavy metal music.

Julie said: "It has been a constant hate campaign against us for five months.

"They have been throwing bricks and stones at our house and banging on the windows. They are being abusive, calling us names like 'sweaties'."

'Sweaty' is a derogatory slang term for people whose lifestyle includes wearing dark clothing and listening to rock music.

Julie has a number of facial piercings and Alan has long hair. Julie said: "They don't like it because we are not the same as them. We don't fit in because we are the only ones on this part of the estate who dress like this."

Alan said the regular abuse has left him angry and afraid. "I have got bad nerves and it's really started affecting me. We want to get it sorted and have a peaceful life again. I just want the kids to leave us alone because it's doing my head in."

The couple praised neighbours who have come to their defence on a number of occasions after they were abused in the street outside their home.

St Julians ward councillor Veronica Watkins condemned the abuse. She said: "When people pick on others because of the way they look or the way they act it's a form of bullying, and it can't be tolerated.

"We can only stop this sort of behaviour if everyone works together to stamp it out."

A spokeswoman for Maindee police said: "I can confirm there have been several recent calls from the residents relating to problems with youths and damage caused to their property.

"Each incident is being investigated, though due to the identities of the offenders not being currently known, we would appreciate anyone with any information relating to those responsible giving us the necessary information.

"We are keen to address issues of anti-social behaviour and associated crime."

Anyone with information can contact PC Phil Taylor or PCSO Dale Morris, the ward team for the area on 01633 645791.